Odisha to Form 10 New ODRAF Teams, Expand Mangrove Cover and Cyclone-Resistant Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Tuesday a series of measures to enhance disaster preparedness in the state, including the formation of 10 new Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams and the development of a mangrove cover along the coastline. The announcement, made during an event for Odisha Disaster Preparedness Day and National Disaster Reduction Day 2024, reflects the state’s commitment to disaster resilience following Cyclone Dana’s recent landfall.

“The ODRAF teams will be increased from 20 to 30, enhancing rapid response capabilities. Additionally, 844 existing multipurpose cyclone centers will be reconstructed as school-cum-shelters,” Majhi said. He also announced plans for a state-of-the-art Natural Disaster Management Centre and noted that new mangrove plantations would stretch along Odisha’s 480-km coastline to mitigate the impact of future natural disasters.

The Chief Minister emphasized that local response teams would be established in each revenue village, strengthening grassroots-level disaster response. “These measures are based on our experience with Cyclone Dana and reflect our commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods,” Majhi added.

To further bolster preparedness, the Odisha government signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with two organizations. The Council for Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) will support heatwave management in 10 cities, while the UN World Food Program will collaborate on online disaster management awareness.

In recognition of the state’s zero-casualty achievement during Cyclone Dana, Majhi presented awards to 142 individuals who contributed to effective disaster response and community safety.